"Itadakimasu": When You Receive More Than Just Food

Every Japanese learner knows the magic phrase before a meal: clasp your hands, bow your head, and say "Itadakimasu" (いただきます). 🍚🙏

But what if I told you I also use "itadakimasu" when my boss gives me advice, or when a friend offers me a concert ticket?

This is one of those incredibly nuanced usages that shows you've truly absorbed Japanese culture.

More Than Just "Receiving"

When someone gives you something, you can say "moraimasu". But "itadakimasu" is on another level. It doesn't just mean "I receive"; it carries the nuance of "I humbly and gratefully accept this precious thing from you."

It expresses deep gratitude and the humility of the receiver.

Golden Opportunities to Use It

1. When Accepting an Item/Opportunity 🎁

   A colleague has a spare movie ticket and asks you:

   A: "Kono eiga no chiketto, ichimai amatterun dakedo, yokattara…" (I have a spare ticket for this movie, if you'd like...)

   You: "E, hontou? Jaa, itadakimasu!" (Oh, really? In that case, I'll happily take it!)

   Using "itadakimasu" here shows that you're genuinely happy and appreciate the offer.

2. When Accepting Advice 💡

   When a senior colleague gives you helpful advice at work:

   Senpai: "Kono ken wa, mazu 〇〇-san ni soudan shita hou ga ii yo." (Regarding this matter, you should probably consult with Mr./Ms. 〇〇 first.)

   You: "Naruhodo, benkyou ni narimasu. Sono adobaisu, itadakimasu." (I see, that's very helpful. I'll take that advice to heart.)

   This shows you're not just hearing the advice, but truly accepting and valuing it.

3. When Accepting a Compliment (can be used humorously) 😉

   A: "Kyou no purezen, sugoku yokatta yo!" (Your presentation today was great!)

   You: "Arigatou gozaimasu! Sono okotoba, itadakimasu!" (Thank you! I'll gladly accept that compliment!)

Conclusion

Instead of just using the plain "moraimasu," using "itadakimasu" in these contexts will make Japanese people feel that you truly understand their culture. It's a small detail that creates a big connection, transforming you from someone who "speaks Japanese" to someone who "communicates like a Japanese person." ✨